What does the Bible say about righteousness and mercy?

The Bible emphasizes that righteousness and mercy are essential for believers. In Proverbs 21:21, we see that those who follow after righteousness and mercy find life, righteousness, and honor. This pursuit is not about performing righteous deeds or showing mercy as an obligation but rather about a heart that yearns for Christ, who is the embodiment of true righteousness. The understanding here is that in our natural state, we lack righteousness and mercy, and it is only through Jesus Christ that we find these vital attributes. Matthew 9:13 reinforces this by showing that Christ came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance, thus underscoring our need for divine mercy.